Sultan of Johor Cup appoints New Zealand Officials
Two New Zealand hockey officials, Ryan Potter and Tom Laney, have been appointed to officiate at the prestigious Sultan of Johor Cup (SOJC), held this month.
The SOJC, held annually in Malaysia, is one of the most respected international Under 21 men’s hockey tournaments. It has long served as a proving ground for emerging talent, both on the field and among the officiating ranks. For New Zealand’s Ryan Potter and Tom Laney, selection to this tournament is both an honour and an opportunity to further their development on the international stage.
We caught up with Ryan and Tom to hear their thoughts on the appointment and what they’re hoping to take away from the experience.
Ryan Potter:
What does this appointment to 2025 SOJC mean for you?
“This appointment means a lot to me. It feels like recognition for the work I’ve put in so far, but also like the start of a new chapter in my umpiring journey. To be given the chance to officiate at such a well-regarded international tournament is both exciting and humbling, and it motivates me to keep pushing myself to grow and get better.”
What are you hoping for/expecting in Malaysia?
“I’m expecting a real challenge, both on and off the field. The level of hockey will be fast and intense, and I’m looking forward to testing myself in that environment. I’m also excited to learn from the other officials, soak up the atmosphere of a high-performance tournament, and enjoy the experience of being in Malaysia — from the people to the food and culture.”
What key outcomes are you hoping to achieve in terms of your current hockey journeys?
“I see this tournament as a big step in my hockey journey. I want to grow more confident under pressure, sharpen my game management and communication, and learn from the feedback and different styles of hockey I’ll experience. Just as importantly, I hope to enjoy the experience, connect with other umpires, and bring back insights I can share with my hockey community. Ultimately, I see SOJC as a stepping stone toward future opportunities while still enjoying the journey I’m on right now.”
Tom Laney:
What does this appointment to 2025 SOJC mean for you?
“This appointment is a real honour and an exciting step in my hockey journey. For me, it represents the opportunity to contribute at an international level while continuing to grow as an official. It’s also recognition of the work I’ve put in at club, regional, and national tournaments, where my focus has always been on being the best I can for the game.”
What are you hoping for/expecting in Malaysia?
“I’m hoping for a challenging but rewarding experience that helps me further develop my officiating. I expect to learn from working alongside other international officials, and I see it as a chance to test myself in a different environment, adapting to different playing styles and expectations.”
What key outcomes are you hoping to achieve in terms of your current hockey journeys?
“I want to continue progressing in my officiating pathway while upholding the same standards that have helped me so far — doing the basics well, staying composed, and using the problem-solving mindset that many Kiwis bring to the game. My key outcomes are to grow in confidence and consistency at the international level, contribute positively to the tournament, and bring those learnings back to support hockey in New Zealand.”